06 Dec 2011

We had visiting Rotarians from Sweden, Rtn Kaj Tibrad from Rotary Club of Majoroni.

The speaker today was Ms. Nissa Marion, she talked about “A Vision for Trash Free Seas: the Hong Kong International Coastal Cleanup Challenge.”.

Nissa Marion is a Canadian born environmentalist based in Hong Kong. After a successful acting and modeling career, in 2005 her passion for conservation led her to join Ecovision Asia, a ten-year established non-profit social enterprise specializing in environmental education and events.

In her role as Project Director, Nissa manages projects such as the well-known Hong Kong International Coastal Cleanup. She believes that education, engagement, and communication are the keys to sustainability.

The International Coastal Cleanup (ICC) represents a global effort to keep our oceans, rivers, lakes and streams free from trash and safe for people and animals. The annual September event, organized in Hong Kong by Ecovision Asia, celebrates this commitment. The four week challenge has become one of the region’s most beloved community volunteer events, engaging thousands of volunteers every year in cleaning up our coastlines.

million kg of plastic enters the ocean every hour of every day, killing more than 1.5 million sea animals a year. With plastic bags, bottles and foodware as the top 3 debris items found on Hong Kong beaches, this is an issue that can’t be ignored! Along with beach cleanups, participants can take the “Plastic-Free Pledge” to help reduce the use of single-use plastic.

No special abilities are required to participate in the ICC, only a desire to help. Participants learn first-hand that the problems of marine pollution, animal entanglement and toxic debris start with careless behaviour and that solutions are within their grasp.

Rtn Shri collected HK$705 for raffle and fines. Rtn Ernie won the prize as a book donatedone of our member. PP Peter Chu won another raffle prize, 2 cans a one bottle of apple cider donated by DDS Tobi.